Congresswoman Johnson Urges Reversal Of Decision On Dallas Urban League

United States Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson, who represents the 30th Congressional District of Texas and one of only two African American women in the Texas delegation, issued a strong letter of support for the Urban League of Greater Dallas & North Central Texas. That letter was delivered to the National Urban League which is attempting to “disaffiliate” the Dallas organization.

Rep. Johnson sent a letter last week to Marc Morial, the President and CEO of the National Urban League. Her comments praised the work of the local organization to correct the financial course of the Dallas Urban League, and it expressed confidence in the new administrative and board leadership now in place.

The letter states:

“The disaffiliation of the chapter could have a devastating impact on hundreds of non-profit organizations…..I am confident that the current leadership has the experience and vision to move the organization forward.”

Rep. Johnson’s call for a reversal of the national organization’s decision follows the issuance of a formal appeal sent to the national organization. The process forward is unclear.

“We formally asked for an appeal,” said Terry Woods, President of the Urban League of Greater Dallas & North Central Texas, and now we are awaiting a response to our demand for a fair, thorough process of evaluating all that Dallas has accomplished to turn this organization around. In fact, we discovered the problems that National should have uncovered.”

Woods thanked Rep. Johnson for her letter.

“We live in a period of time when a lot of elected officials won’t take risks,” said Woods. “Our Congresswoman, Eddie Bernice Johnson, personifies leadership, and we are grateful, on behalf of those we serve, for her commitment to the important work we are doing in the Dallas region.”

Source: Dallas Weekley

Congresswoman Johnson Applauds Court Decision Regarding Texas Voter ID Law

“Today, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled unanimously that the restrictive Republican-backed Texas voter ID law violates section two of the Voting Rights Act. As a result of the 2013 Supreme Court decision in Shelby County vs. Holder, Texas, a state with a long history of discriminatory voting practices, was empowered to implement stricter voter ID laws that infringed upon the constitutional rights of minority, poor, and elderly Texans.

The right to vote is fundamental to our democratic system of government, and it is strengthened when every citizen can freely exercise his or her right to participate. The Fifth Circuit’s ruling recognizes the discriminatory effect of Texas’s laws and highlights the need to remedy the harmful impact of the Shelby decision. The court affirmed the striking difference the law has on minority voters who are not able to obtain the identification needed to vote.

In Texas, while many are able to vote with a handgun license, countless others are unable to do so with a college or student I.D. This is unacceptable. As such, I urge my colleagues to move forward on passing the Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2015. This piece of legislation will restore the voting rights protections that were stripped away by the Supreme Court’s ruling and guard against further attacks on fundamental voting rights.

As we look forward to tomorrow’s celebrations in recognition of the 50th Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, we must renew our commitment to fight for democracy by advancing the protection of the right to vote.” Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Keynote Speaker At Opening Of Progressive National Baptist Convention

Fifty years ago, President Lyndon Johnson signed into law the Voting Rights Act, a key piece of civil rights legislation that was gutted by a Supreme Court decision in 2013.

Hundreds of clergy from around the country gathered in Dallas this week for the Progressive National Baptist Convention. They say the fight for voting equality and fairness at the polls continues to this day.

“We want the Congress to know, and the world to know, that everyone deserves the right to vote,” said convention attendee Kip Banks.

Dallas Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson was a featured speaker Thursday at the convention. She spoke of her pride in seeing the Voting Rights Act signed, which determined that many southern states needed federal approval before they could change voting laws due to patterns of discrimination.

Two years ago, a Supreme Court decision struck down key provisions in the law. Many Congressional democrats like Johnson have been fighting ever since to put them back in.

“There’s momentum with the Democrats, it’s a struggle with Republicans,” Johnson said. “We have not been able to get it out of committee. It’s really a puzzle as to why.”

Pastors at this conference said it's difficult for minority and poor citizens to get to polling locations, and it's a struggle to add polling places on college campuses and in poor urban areas.

“Some people think there's not a problem," Johnson said. "But if you're African-American, you know that there is a problem. And the problem should be corrected. And we will not stop until it is."

“The 2016 election is around the corner, tonight is the first Republican debate," Banks said. "For us, there's no reason to turn the clock back."

Federal appeals court Wednesday struck down Texas' voter ID law, saying it was discriminatory. Many of the convention-goers say that's a perfect example of why the fight for equal voting rights continues to this day.

Source: NBC5

Congresswoman Johnson Recognizes The 25th Anniversary Of American With Disabilities Act

“This Sunday marks twenty-five years since the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “This law is one of the most comprehensive and successful pieces of legislation in our nation’s history. It protects the rights of individuals living with disabilities and ensures greater accessibility and inclusivity in many aspects of every-day life.”

Since the Americans with Disabilities Act was enacted, the law has provided millions of Americans with the opportunity to participate fully in our society by:

·Making the workplace more accessible by prohibiting private employers, state and local governments, employment agencies and labor unions from discriminating against qualified individuals with disabilities;

·Providing for reasonable accommodations to those who otherwise would have difficulty on the job because of a disability, such as making existing facilities used by employees readily accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities; and

·Ensuring those with differing abilities have the tools to succeed by requiring employers to make a reasonable accommodation for the known disability of a qualified applicant or employee, such as providing a deaf applicant with a sign language interpreter during the job interview, or allowing an employee with diabetes to take regularly scheduled breaks during the workday to eat properly and monitor blood sugar and insulin levels.

In addition to the 56.7 million Americans living with disabilities, the ADA has also positively impacted the lives of the 232,000 individuals with disabilities who are living with disabilities in Dallas.

“As we mark this anniversary, we recommit ourselves to ensuring that every American has the opportunity to live independently and with dignity,” concluded Congresswoman Johnson. “I am proud of the progress the law has made for Americans with disabilities, and I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress to advance equality for all Americans and remove obstacles that stand in the way of the American Dream.” - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Praises NASA And New Accomplishments in Space Exploration

"It is not an overstatement to say that NASA's planetary science program has been extraordinarily successful, and that fact is a tribute to the hard work and perseverance of NASA, its contractors, and the space research community. Yet, Congress also has a role to play in keeping NASA's solar system exploration program robustnamely, we need to do our part by making sure NASA receives adequate and timely funding to support the development and operation of those challenging missions. And we need to make sure we are also providing the funding needed to develop the advanced technologies that will enable the future missions that will continue to rewrite the science textbooks." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Announces Federal Grant For Glen Heights Fire Department

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson announced that the Glenn Heights Fire Department was awarded $78,858 in federal grant funds by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The funds will be used to improve operations and safety within the department and assist in meeting the firefighting and emergency response needs of the Glenn Heights Fire Department and emergency medical first responders.

“The announcement of this award is great news for the Glenn Heights Fire Department,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “Our firefighters are on the front lines every day risking their lives to keep us all safe, and it is important that we make every effort to support the important work and service they provide to our communities. I am pleased that the department won this competitive grant that will be used to enhance their ability to do their jobs safely and efficiently. I am very proud of the men and women who serve at the Glenn Heights Fire Department and of firefighters throughout District 30 for the selfless service they provide. I will continue to fight for the resources and support they need.”

This grant was awarded as a part of FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. Since 2001, AFG has helped firefighters and other first responders obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training and other resources required to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards. Congresswoman Johnson has been a strong advocate for grants to local first responders in the 30th Congressional District.

Source: Focus Daily News

Congresswoman Johnson Joins President Obama On Historic Trip To Kenya And Ethiopia

Black lawmakers were among those leaving Thursday with President Barack Obama aboard Air Force One on a historic trip to Africa, which marks the first time a sitting U.S. president has traveled to Kenya and Ethiopia.

The visit underscores the president’s familial ties to Kenya, where he has already met with Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, spent time with members of his father’s family, and will attend a summit with young African leaders.

The visit also marks the first time that a sitting U.S. president addresses the African Union. He will attend bilateral meetings in Ethiopia and Kenya, attend additional meetings at the African Union, and address the sixth Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES), the first to be held in sub-Saharan Africa.

“The Global Entrepreneurship Summit will highlight the president’s commitment to promoting entrepreneurship globally, particularly opportunities for women and girls,” National Security AdvisorSusan Rice said earlier this week at a White House press briefing, according to a statement.

Rice, foreign policy aide Ben Rhodes, and White House spokesman Josh Earnest joined him on the trip.

Rice also said that the president would have an opportunity to pay tribute to the victims and the survivors of the 1998 embassy bombings, which targeted U.S. embassies not only in Nairobi, but also in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Also joining him at various times on the six-day trip aboard Air Force One are about 20 lawmakers, including Rep. G.K. Butterfield (D-N.C.), president of the Congressional Black Caucus; Representatives Barbara Lee and Karen Bass, Democrats from California; Representatives Gregory Meeks and Charlie Rangel, Democrats from New York; Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Ala.); RepresentativesEddie Bernice Johnson, Al Green  and Sheila Jackson Lee, all Democrats from Texas; Rep. John Conyers (D-Mich.); Rep. Marcia Fudge (D-Ohio); Rep. Robin Kelly (D-Ill.); Rep. Gwen Moore (D-Wisc.); Rep. Donald Payne (D-N.J.); Rep.  Cedric Richmond (D-La.); Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.); and Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.).

Source: Chicago Defender

Congresswoman Johnson Advocates For Stricter Healthier Ozone Standards

"Summer should be a time for families to relax, perhaps take a trip to a favorite vacation spot — but all too often, summer means a trip to the emergency room.

For people living with asthma, and their families, summer’s heat means ozone pollution can make it unsafe to be outside.

Breathing ozone, often called smog, can send people with asthma to the emergency room, and it can shorten people’s lives. In Dallas-Fort Worth, dangerous ozone episodes frequently occur from now through September.

People here are all too familiar with air quality alerts. Families know that a hot day can be a Code Orange or Red day — an unhealthy air day — so they need to take steps to protect themselves.

Even on “moderate” code yellow days, the ozone pollution places children, seniors and those with asthma and other chronic diseases at risk.

However, the warnings are based on an outdated standard for ozone.

Congress must support an updated ozone standard to protect not only those most at risk but all of us from the effects of ozone.

Scientific evidence shows that the current national ozone standard — the limit on how much ozone can be in our air and the official declaration of how much ozone is safe to breathe — does not adequately protect public health.

Even though many areas meet the current standard, the remaining ozone burden still forces too many people to the hospital and the ER because they have trouble breathing.

And the full threat from ozone may be even worse. For example, studies find children’s lungs are susceptible to lifelong damage from this pollutant.

Dallas County alone is home to more than 60,000 children and 131,000 adults with asthma who are at risk of missing work or school, ending up in the emergency room or hospital, and even dying prematurely on days with dangerous ozone levels.

Nationally, EPA estimates that a protective standard would prevent up to 7,900 premature deaths and 1.8 million childhood asthma attacks in the year 2025 alone.

Those in Dallas-Fort Worth are counting on the EPA to set standards that protect their health.

Congress should be working to provide cleaner air faster. Instead, some members are trying to block this lifesaving safeguard by muddying the science around the health effects of ozone.

Some have claimed that a recent study from Johns Hopkins University found that ozone pollution isn’t important for asthma, despite the fact that the study didn’t even look at air pollution.

It examined the relationship between location, poverty, race/ethnicity and asthma prevalence in children.

The authors of the study wrote a letter to Congress correcting the erroneous claims about their findings and outlining the extensive body of research and preponderance of evidence showing that ozone levels harm respiratory health.

The science of what causes asthma is not settled, but we do know that for those who have the disease, ozone can trigger asthma attacks and force them into emergency medical care or hospital treatment.

We need a strong standard that offers real, science-based protection for our communities." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson 

SOURCE: Fort Worth Star Telegram

Congresswoman Johnson Receives Friend Of National Parks Award

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson received the Friend of the National Parks Award from the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA). The award recognizes Congresswoman Johnson's votes during the 113th Congress that contributed to the protection and enhancement of America's national parks. At a confirmed 100 voting record, Congresswoman Johnson voted favorably for all five legislative measures related to National Parks during the 113th Congress.

"It's an honor to recognize Congresswoman Johnson for supporting our national parks on the floor of the House during the 113th Congress," said NPCA President and CEO Clark Bunting. "As the 114th Congress works on policies and funding levels impacting our national parks, I look forward to working with Ms. Johnson to ensure national parks have safe roadways, are well maintained, and have the resources they need to thrive for their upcoming centennial."

NPCA's Friend of the National Parks Award was established in 1999 to track and publicize congressional members' votes on significant park issues. This year, NPCA tracked votes for three national park-related votes in the Senate and five in the House of Representatives. To receive the award, senators needed to vote in favor of national parks on at least two scored bills and representatives on at least three scored bills.

"It is an honor to receive the Friend of the National Parks Award, said Congresswoman Johnson. With sixteen national parks located throughout the state of Texas, I have first-hand knowledge of the tremendous benefits these pieces of infrastructure bring. Moving forward, as it remains in the best interest of the American people, I will continue to support national park legislation in the 114th Congress."

Congresswoman Johnson Commemorates 50th Anniversary Of Older Americans Act

"Originally passed in 1965, the Older Americans Act ensures that older individuals and their caregivers have access to a wide array of services. Aside from Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, services such as community- based care, meal delivery, health prevention programs, and elder rights protection are just a few of the many vital programs that the Older Americans Act provides.

The population age 65 and over increased by 24.7 percent between 2003 and 2013 and the number of individuals in need of aging programs continues to rise. Nearly 50 million older Americans and Americans with disabilities rely on Medicare coverage and more than 70 million individuals depend on Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program for their health care needs. Nearly 42 million Americans receive Social Security retirement benefits and for 6 out of 10 seniors, Social Security provides most of their income. I strongly believe in solvent Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security systems that give older Americans the security they need.

As for the impact of the community and social services provided by the Older Americans Act, the aging network serves an average of 11 million people each year. For example, over a five year period, 130 million rides to doctors' offices, grocery stores, and other locations were provided. More than 1 billion meals were served and 95 percent of those served would recommend the nutrition program. Nearly 20 million hours of case management, over 60 million hours of homemaker services, and more than 30 million hours of respite care were provided, helping older adults continue to live in their own homes. Through the Senior Community Service Employment Program, more than 200,000 participants provided almost 248 million hours of community service, effectively allowing seniors to give back to their community.

As the Baby Boomer Generation enters the 65 and over age bracket and the average life expectancy lengthens, it is clear that we cannot afford a shortage of services. As we celebrate the Older Americans Act 50th Anniversary, we must also keep in mind that these services often end up on the chopping block. On this historic day, I hope that we can all work together to find ways to continue to provide these vital services to our older Americans." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Hails Nuclear Deal With Iran

“After years of negotiating, the President announced an historic agreement with Iran regarding its nuclear program. I believe America and its international partners are taking an important first step in the right direction. In doing so, we are expanding the reach of our nation’s diplomatic powers and hopefully, eliminating the spread of nuclear arms. I applaud President Obama’s commitment to diplomacy and peace-building strategies and commend Secretary John Kerry and Secretary Ernest Moniz for their skilled leadership during the negotiations.

As President Obama stated, ‘this deal is not built on trust, it is built on verification.’  We cannot simply accept the words of others to secure the international community's and America's safety. We must receive this verification autonomously by our own methods.

Moving forward, the details of the agreement will undergo intense Congressional scrutiny over the next 60 days. I am hopeful that this deal will prove to advance the security for America and our trusted allies by curbing Iran’s nuclear program, so that we can move toward implementation.” - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson On Introduction Of Key Fair Housing Rule

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson released the following statement applauding the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) introduction of a fair housing regulation entitled Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH), a rule aimed at promoting harmonious, stable and prosperous communities and locales:

"When Congress passed the Fair Housing Act in 1968, it did so with the intent to prohibit discrimination in housing related activities, while also imposing an affirmative duty to further fair housing. The Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing rule sets out a framework for local governments, states, and public housing agencies (PHAs) to take meaningful action to remedy decades of government-supported segregation practices, promote fair housing choice and encourage inclusive communities that are free from discrimination.

The regulation released today will equip communities that receive HUD funding with data and tools necessary to meet fair housing obligations, ensuring that federal funds are not used to support discriminatory policies. For far too long, we have unfairly deprived under-served communities of the educational and economic investments necessary for equitable success.

Today's announcement by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is a critical step in addressing the harmful effects of housing segregation and inequality across our nation, and I applaud Secretary Castro and the Obama Administration for releasing a final rule that seeks to redress such a harmful cycle of inequality."

Along with the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing rule, HUD will provide local policymakers with improved data on housing, demographics, and other local conditions. Additionally, the rule will help communities make strategic use of the resources available to expand housing choices for individuals with disabilities, families with children, and other under-served groups.

Congresswoman Johnson Heads Srebrenica Resolution

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson applauded the passage of H.Res. 310, a resolution expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding Srebrenica. As a co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Bosnia, Congresswoman Johnson served as the lead democrat on the resolution that passed by voice vote this afternoon. Congresswoman Johnson released the following statement regarding Srebrenica:

"I believe it is crucial to distinguish the Srebrenica massacres as genocide while honoring the thousands of innocent people who were killed in July twenty years ago. In the early 1990s, following Bosnia and Herzegovina's declaration of national sovereignty, Bosnian Serb forces attacked Eastern Bosnia in order to unify and secure Serb territory. During this struggle for control, those Bosnian Serb forces, also called the Army of Republika Srpska committed crimes of ethnic cleansing of the non-Serb population. Approximately 8,000 Bosnian men and boys were systematically executed in July of 1995.

The situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina during this time was a failure on behalf of the international community. In 1999, UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan acknowledged that the global community needed to accept responsibility for the ethnic cleansing campaign in Bosnia and Herzegovina that killed thousands of unarmed civilians in a town designated as a "safe area."

For many years now, I have called on the United Nations to recognize the Srebrenica genocide. Yesterday, I learned that Russia blocked the latest effort by the United Kingdom to recognize the Srebrenica massacres as a genocide, calling it "not constructive, confrontational, and politically-motivated." I am disappointed that the UN is unable to formally recognize Europe's worst atrocity since World War II.

Although the global community cannot and will not distinguish the Srebrenica massacres as a crime of genocide, I applaud my fellow Bosnia Caucus co-chair, Congressman Chris Smith, for introducing this important resolution. While the UN's hands are tied, I am proud that the United States continues to be Bosnia and Herzegovina's greatest friend and ally."

Congresswoman Johnson Leads Peace Conference In Taiwan

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson participated in a conference titled "Building Bridges of Peace through Culture and Faith," hosted by Judy Chen Hseih and the Hwazan World Education Foundation. The conference was held in Taipei, Taiwan and focused on utilizing culture and faith to promote peace.

During the conference, Congresswoman Johnson addressed more than 1,000 audience members to provide background on the A World of Women for World Peace initiative. "Throughout my time in office, I have seen first-hand the pillage of war. Shortly after experiencing the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, I saw on the cover of Newsweek magazine, two boys from Liberia who were 12 and 14 years old all dressed in war gear with machine guns, and I just thought enough was enough. I wondered how our world had come to this place of aggression, and I knew that I had to do something to be a part of bringing a culture of peace to the world," said Congresswoman Johnson.

"My efforts started with women who are the mothers of young boys like the ones I saw on the cover of that magazine, whose lives are sacrificed in the name of war. We must recognize and empower these women to facilitate peace-building, peacemaking, and peace-keeping activities across the world. We must also recognize the experts and leaders who help us to plant the seeds of peace. Today's conference helps us to re-emphasize the necessity of peace and diplomacy across the globe."

On the first panel, Alma Abdul-Hadi Jadallah, PhD, Carol Griffith Williams, Olivia Stokes Dreier, and Roberto Garcia spoke about culture and peace. Dr. Jadallah told stories of conflict from around the world and left a message with the audience of sustaining hope in the midst of adversity. Carol Williams, a former Montana state legislator, discussed women promoting peace during a time of war and Peace Links, an organization she helped to found during the Cold War to open lines of communication and exchange programs between women in Russia and America. Olivia Dreier of the Karuna Center for Peace-building spoke about compassion and healing the wounds of civil wars across the globe through dialogue between different religious and ethnic groups by recognizing local traditions. Roberto Garcia, a multicultural relations professional in Toowoomba, Australia, where eighty ethnic groups speak over one hundred languages, spoke about the vast cultural diversity in Australia and encouraged multi-cultural participation in the community.

On the second panel, Reverend Timothy Njoya, Swami Samachittananda, Noor Mohamed Marican, and Harbans Singh spoke about faith-based peace. Reverend Timothy Njoya, who developed Men for Equality with Women in Kenya, spoke about faith as an instrument of peace, love, and compassion. Swami Samachittananda, a Hindu monk, quoted various religious texts and spoke about harmony in religions. Noor Mohamed Marican, a leader of Singapore's Inter-Religious Organization, spoke about his experiences as a Muslim and finding common ground with other faith leaders and practitioners by recognizing their differences. Harbans Singh, who serves as Honorary Secretary of Singapore's Inter-Religious Organization, spoke about Sikhism's dedication to humility and compassion.

In addition to the two panels, the conference also featured an interfaith peace discussion with faith leaders from the Multi-Faith Multicultural Centre at Pure Land Learning College in Toowoomba, Australia, a universal prayer with a candle lighting ceremony, and cultural dance performances.

Congresswoman Johnson's Statement On Passage Of The Student Success Act

“The most recent iteration of the Elementary Secondary Education Act, HR 5, that was brought to the floor of the House today failed to implement lessons learned from the failed policies of No Child Left Behind. Instead of providing more resources to students and teachers and implementing smarter accountability measures, the Student Success Act advances policies that gut the core intent of the original Elementary Secondary Education Act of 1965.

Among the most egregious provisions of the proposed legislation is a provision providing for the “portability” for Title 1 funds. This specific provision adversely affects families in District 30 and any communities with high concentrations of poverty by diluting the funding formula which seeks to provide additional resources to struggling school districts. Instead of abating the disparity of resources within underserved communities, portability of Title 1 funds would guarantee that low-resourced schools remained in deteriorating conditions.

Additionally, as the Ranking Member on the Science, Space, and Technology Committee, and a long-time advocate for STEM -- Science, Technology, Mathematics and Engineering -- education, I was alarmed by the utter and complete exclusion of any reference to STEM education within the base text.

We should be retooling our education system to fit the needs of an ever evolving, globalized economy, not running back to factory-style education that fails to provide our children with the skills needed to compete.

Education is the ladder to opportunity and central to keeping alive the American Dream. I will not rest until my colleagues on both sides of aisle establish a bill that ensures education in America is reflective of our principles as a nation.”

Congresswoman Johnson Marks The Anniversary Of The Landmark Civil Rights Act Of 1964

“As we commemorate the anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, we remember the debt all of us owe to the courageous leaders of the 1960’s Civil Rights Movement – many of whom fell victim to unconscionable crimes because of their choices to lead the march against discrimination, injustice and inequality. Their unyielding hope lay at the foundation of the progress we’ve made as a nation.

The landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964 helped bring an end to the Jim Crow era by prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.  Although the Civil Rights Act of 1964 represents enormous progress, there remains a great deal of work to be done. In the wake of recent tragedies, such as the shooting in Charleston and the numerous incidents of police violence against minorities, it is clear that the nation remains deeply divided, and we are all responsible for leading the effort of reconciliation, so that we can heal the wounds of prejudice and hatred in every city, county and state. We must work together to restore our nation’s dignity.

I call upon Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle to act in a bipartisan fashion to honor the sacrifices of the brave leaders of the Civil Rights Movement by continuing to advance civil rights efforts around the country. This begins with protecting the right of every American to participate in the democratic process by supporting the Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2015, which I am co-sponsoring. Supporting this piece of legislation would be in the spirit of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, ensuring that America lives up to its creed that all individuals are created equal.”

Congresswoman Johnson Congratulates LGBT Community On Supreme Court Decision On Marriage Equality

 Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, who represents most of Oak Lawn, sent the following statement in recognition of the recent ruling by the Supreme Court of the United States regarding marriage equality:

"Equality for all Americans is of the utmost importance, and after a long fought battle across the nation and throughout the federal judicial system, the Supreme Court of the United States has affirmed that committed couples, regardless of sexual orientation, have a Constitutional right to marry.

As we celebrate this great victory during LGBT Pride Month, we also remember that LGBT Americans have fought for the equality of all Americans, and each year during the month of June, we recognize their contributions and accomplishments in the fight for full equality.

On Friday, our nation made history with this ruling. But, there is still much to be done as we continue the fight for the extension of full protection under the law to every American, including those in the LGBT community. Moving forward, I will continue my commitment to fight against discriminatory laws and practices that impede an individual’s freedom." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

SOURCE: Dallas Voice

President Obama Praises Congresswoman Johnson For Her Leadership On Trade

"The President commends Members of Congress who took important steps this week to ensure that the United States can negotiate and enforce strong, high-standard trade agreements that are good for American workers and our economy. Thanks to the leadership of Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, workers and businesses in Texas will have more opportunity to compete and win in markets both at home and abroad. With bipartisan support from Congress, Trade Promotion Authority will help America write the rules of our new, global economy so more hardworking Americans can get their products to market. And with Trade Adjustment Assistance, vital support like job-training and community college education will now be available to more than 100,000 workers per year.

In voting with the president on TPA, Johnson went against the wishes of the labor unions. We’ll see how that impacts her going forward. Johnson has not said whether she is seeking re-election in 2016." - White House Spokesman Josh Earnest

Congresswoman Johnson Applauds Passage Of Trade Priorities And Accountability Act

“International trade has not only had a positive impact on our national economy, it is also a strong economic driver in my district. In fact, Texas leads the nation in exports and jobs directly linked to them”.

In 2014, Texas exported $289 billion in goods and led the nation in manufacturing exports by a large margin. During 2013, the metropolitan area of Dallas-Ft. Worth-Arlington exported $27.6 billion in goods to the rest of the world.

Establishing Trade Promotion Authority will give President Obama the tools he needs to negotiate free and fair trade agreements across the globe. I strongly urge the Senate to send this legislation to the President’s desk.” - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson's Statement On The Charleston Shootings

“I am shocked and saddened to hear of the disheartening news regarding last night’s shooting in Charleston, SC. My thoughts and prayers are with the survivors and loved ones of the victims of this tragedy at the historic Emanuel A.M.E. Church. Among the victims was Rev. Clementa C. Pinckney, pastor of the church and a dynamic state senator. A faithful public servant, his impact on parishioners is purely evident today as members of the Charleston community band together in solidarity.

I stand in solidarity with the church congregation, the friends and family of those affected, and the community of Charleston during this very difficult time. There is absolutely no place for this level of hatred against peaceful worshippers in a religious sanctuary. Though we can find solace in the perpetrator’s recent capture, it is my hope that justice for this heinous crime be swift. 

For generations, this church has been a beacon of hope for African Americans who have endured years of racial strife in South Carolina. I am confident that this resilient community will come together once again to overcome this senseless tragedy.” - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Parkland Hospital Honors Congresswoman Johnson

The new garden surrounding the Parkland Women and Infants Specialty Health (WISH) Center was named for Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson at a ceremony held last weekend.

“Congresswoman Johnson has helped to make Dallas what it is today,” said Debbie Dudley Branson, a local Dallas attorney and chair of the Parkland Board of Managers. “The Parkland community is grateful to you for your lifetime commitment to public health. Your name will forever be associated with one of the finest public hospitals in the country.”

Parkland Foundation President and CEO David Krause said, “Congresswoman Johnson has been a steadfast advocate for Parkland, and I am delighted that the promenade is being named for her.”

Healthcare has always been a priority to Johnson. She is trained as a nurse and began her career working at the V.A. Hospital in Dallas. As a state senator, she crafted the first HIV legislation in Texas.

“I am both proud and humbled to be recognized by the naming of such a beautiful space that will be used to provide a place of serenity to the women and children who will be the work they do here, and this is an extraordinary honor,” Johnson said.

The largest hospital in Dallas County, Parkland had more than one million patient visits last year. The new Parkland Hospital is scheduled to open Aug. 20 in Dallas’ medical district. It will be an 865-bed facility.

Source: Dallas Voice, David Taffet

Congresswoman's Statement On The Passing Of Former Speaker Of The House Jim Wright

"Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great pleasure to pay tribute to the life and legacy of Former Speaker of the House James ``Jim'' Wright, who passed away on Wednesday, May 6th at the age of 92. Speaker Wright served in Congress for more than three decades and left an indelible legacy as chairman of the House Public Works Committee. He was elected by his peers as Speaker in 1987.



Jim Wright was born in Fort Worth, Texas, the son of a traveling salesman. He was educated at Weatherford College and the University of Texas at Austin. Jim Wright dedicated his life to serving the public. He bravely served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for flying combat missions in the South Pacific. Subsequently, he was elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 1946. He served as mayor of Weatherford, Texas from 1950 to 1954. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1954 and was reelected 16 times.

Speaker Wright was a visionary who served the people of Fort Worth and this nation well. He is deserving of this tribute. Because of his leadership, the House experienced one of its most prolific periods. Speaker Wright demonstrated his skill as a political leader and master legislator by shepherding extraordinarily complex legislation through the House. He understood that the business of legislating and good politics required great skill in the art of compromise.

Speaker Wright never backed down from a challenge, and even after leaving office, he continued to serve the public diligently. I was always able to consult with Speaker Wright regarding difficult legislation, and he never failed to provide 

thoughtful and principled insight.

Our country has lost one of its finest statesmen, and I have lost a close personal friend whose wisdom, dignity and knowledge of the legislative process was unquestionably enviable. He is among the most influential Speakers in the history of the House of Representatives.

Mr. Speaker, Jim Wright is an unforgettable public servant and leader. A man fueled by passion and concern for others, he set the bar high for his successors. He is survived by his wife, Betty and four children. I stand today to honor Former Speaker of the House, Jim Wright, and to thank him for his work in service to the people of Texas and throughout this great nation. He left a powerful legacy that will live for generations." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Remembers Former Speaker Jim Wright

“Speaker Wright understood that good politics was the art of compromise and believed that fairness was reached when the interests of all concerned parties were considered. I was able to consult with Speaker Wright whenever I had to consider complex legislative issues. He was always thoughtful and took a principled stand, even in difficult circumstances.” - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Trans Pacific Partnership Trade Is Good For Dallas

During the coming months, Congress will be asked to consider the most comprehensive and ambitious trade deal of our time. The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) is one of the cornerstones of President Barack Obama’s trade agenda. It seeks to improve the U.S. economy and those of eleven other countries.

Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam are dependent upon the comprehensive and high-standard free trade agreement.

Some of these countries lack minimum labor, environmental, and humanitarian standards, all of which President Obama and his chief negotiators strive to address and enforce in the TPP deal.

Before TPP or the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (T-TIP) can be considered by Congress, a trade promotion authority (TPA) bill must be passed.

TPA bills outline Congressional guidance to the administration on trade policy and establish requirements for trade agreements. Many refer to TPA as “fast track” because trade agreements would be sent to Congress for an up-or-down vote with no amendments allowed.

Essentially, this gives the administration the power to negotiate trade deals without Congressional input. Prior TPA bills have established the fast-track measure; however, a TPA bill currently under consideration includes language that enables Congress to reject the fast-track process if 60 Senators decide that the president ignored negotiating objectives mandated by Congress.

Arguments against fast-track certainly have had some validity.

However, lawmakers in Congress have shown commitment to a TPA bill that includes a strong measure of Congressional oversight.

A free-trade agreement would only help our economy. In 2014, more than 1.1 million American jobs were directly supported by manufactured goods and exports.

In fact, Texas leads the nation in exports and jobs directly linked to them. In 2014, Texas exported $289 billion in goods, and led the nation in manufacturing exports by a large margin.

In 2013, the metropolitan area of Dallas-Ft. Worth-Arlington exported $27.6 billion in goods to the rest of the world. In past trade agreements, Texas’ main exports were from the oil and gas industry.

The economic expansion of Texas has made our state successful with agricultural exports, such as beef, veal and plant products, while manufacturing exports now include electronics, chemicals, and machinery and transportation equipment.

The Dallas economy depends on free and fair trade. With four out of five of Dallas’ top export markets covered by TPP (Canada, Mexico, Singapore) and T-TIP (Netherlands), the North Texas export market is integral to any strategy that aims to grow the economies of Dallas and Texas.

These free trade agreements will undoubtedly help the U.S., and enhance a global commitment by our partner nations to improved labor, environmental, and humanitarian standards.

As we negotiate two of the largest trade deals in our history, we must consider the positive impact that international trade has on our state economy, as well as on our national economy and the global economy.

SOURCE: North Dallas Gazette

Congresswoman Johnson's Statement On Trade Promotion Authority Without Trade Adjustment Assistance

“After a series of contentious debates regarding the future of trade, the U.S. House of Representatives failed to pass the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Act but passed the Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) Act. Despite yesterday’s passage of the Trade Preference Extension Act, which provided an alternative finance mechanism to ensure that no cuts to Medicare would result from the passage of TAA, the House failed to muster support for this critical piece of legislation that would have provided much needed protection for American workers.

To be clear, throughout this entire trade policy debate, I have been vehemently opposed to any cuts to Medicare, but the passage of TPA without TAA leaves displaced workers with no safety net. The Trade Adjustment Assistance Act would have provided wide-ranging benefits for our nation’s economy by providing employment and training services to increase the skills of displaced workers and boost their future earning potential. After today’s vote, they are left with no protections.

I urge my colleagues to protect America’s workforce and pass the Trade Adjustment Assistance Act when the House reconsiders the trade package next week.

Moving forward, I will continue to support trade policies that aim to ensure sustained economic growth and job creation for the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, the state of Texas and the United States of America.” - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson and Congressman Murphy Introduce Mental Health Crisis Act

Rep. Tim Murphy (R-Pa.), along with co-sponsor Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas), introduced a new version of his 2013 legislation Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act, H.R. 2646. The Bill is designed to break down barriers to care, clarify privacy standards, expand behavioral health parity and reform outdated programs.

The new version includes a new HHS leadership post, assistant secretary for mental health and substance-abuse disorders, and establishes a national mental health policy laboratory to develop new models of care. It also provides for additional psychiatric hospital beds, promotes telepsychiatry for underserved and rural areas, authorizes an early intervention program for people with or developing schizophrenia, focuses on suicide prevention and incentivizes states to provide alternatives to institutionalization. It would also promote the use of health information technology to better coordinate care with primary-care physicians.